The Texas National Guard declined to comment on how many troops would be sent to Austin or whether officials planned to send members into other Texas cities where protests are scheduled. (Texas Military Department)
AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas governor ordered the state’s National Guard to send an unspecified number of troops to Austin ahead of a protest planned in the city for Saturday.
It is the second time this year Gov. Greg Abbott has ordered troops and state police to the state capital for a protest known as “No Kings.” The previous protest in June remained peaceful as marchers moved through downtown.
Abbott said the protest is linked to an anti-fascist movement, though online descriptions for the event describe it as pushing back against abuse of power, cruelty and corruption. The organization has protests planned in cities across the country on Saturday.
The Texas National Guard declined to comment on how many troops would be sent or whether officials planned to send members into other Texas cities where protests are scheduled.
“Violence and destruction will never be tolerated in Texas,” Abbott said in a statement Thursday. “Today, I directed the Texas Department of Public Safety and Texas National Guard to deploy all necessary law enforcement officials and resources to ensure the safety of Austin residents. Texas will deter criminal mischief and work with local law enforcement to arrest anyone engaging in acts of violence or damaging property.”
These law enforcement officers and troops will be supported by aircraft and other tactical assets, according to the governor’s office.
The Texas National Guard also has about 200 troops in the Chicago area, where they were sent on federal orders to protect federal personnel and property against protests. However, a judge has temporarily blocked them from conducting operations.